Occupying a large area that borders on France and Switzerland, Piedmont is the ancient dominion of the Savoys, the ill-fated royal family who ruled Italy from the Unification in 1861 until abdication in 1946. Piedmont is also the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement, with a host of specialities in an area which boasts centuries’ old culinary traditions and outstanding, top quality local produce appreciated throughout the world. Cycling through tranquil hamlets, castles and hillside vineyards, you’ll be delighted by Piedmont’s culinary landscape, famous for hazelnuts, cheese, truffles and excellent wines, such as Barolo or Barbera among others.

 

1. Arrival in Alessandria

The city is divided by the river Tanaro. Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo with its wonderful neoclassical cathedral are worth a visit.

2. Alessandria – Acqui Terme (50 km)

You cycle for a few kilometers along the Strada Franca, an ancient road dating back to 1454. You will pass across smooth hills, woods and small isolated villages where you will be able to taste local products and excellent local wines (Barbera and Dolcetto d’Acqui among others). Acqui Terme is famous for its spring waters, like the “Bollente” situated in the historical centre.

3. Acqui Terme – Alba (55 km)

You come across the famous Langhe hills, the countryside and the vineyards as well as the splendid small villages of Montabone, Rocchetta Palafea and Canelli. The stage ends in Alba, home of the most precious of the truffles, the Tartufo Bianco, and of the famous wine “Dolcetto d’Alba”.

4. Alba–Asti (35 km)

A route through vineyards and along panoramic paths which will eventually take you to Asti in the heart of Monferrato. Do visit the historical centre with its famous towers, the Romanesque monuments and the splendid Gothic cathedral.

5. Excursion to Torino or Asti round tour (35 km)

Today you can choose between cycling across the Asti hills and their nature parks and a trip by train to Torino, which can be reached in about one hour. Torino, the first capital of Italy, is a city with splendid monuments, tree-lined roads and ancient cafés, which offer a choice of chocolate-based specialities.

6. Asti – Casale Monferrato (55 km)

Take advantage of the hospitality of the wine cellars and restaurants along the way, which offer an excellent enogastronomical choice. In Monferrato you will eventually meet the river Po, the longest river in Italy.

7. Casale Monferrato – Alessandria (45 km)

Further cycling across green hills and cultivated lands. Passing through the small villages on the right side of the Po river you will return to Alessandria where the tour ends.

8. Alessandria

Departure after breakfast.

Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday. For example, along the way you may find temporary deviations caused by roadworks, which cannot be foreseen; in this case please follow the indications you will find on site.

Included

• 7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast
• Welcome briefing in English
• App including maps, points of interest and GPS tracks
• Digital tour information
• Luggage transportation
• Hotline service

Not included

• Local taxes (approx 10 €)
• Everything not mentioned in the section “Included”